Saturday, January 31, 2009

Meet Savannah - a recently adopted 4 month old puppy. She accompanied me on the Humane Society's 6K Run for the Paws and didn't stop until she crossed the finish line - and under an hour, at that! Her eyes are absolutely precious and it will be interesting to watch her develop - suppose to be a lab/husky mix, but appears to be more of a diverse gene pool, if you ask me! 370 Airport Rd., Naples, FL

Friday, January 30, 2009

A sign of warning - trains approaching. If not for such cautionary messages, consequences could be much more dire. Yet many choose to ignore this and other signs and advise in daily life - is it because they are so commonplace and thus an oversight? is it because the actual occurrence is relatively small and thus we take our chances? is it because we choose to deny the warnings? or is there another reason...or no reason at all? Naples Depot, Naples, FL

Thursday, January 29, 2009

The trunk of this banyan tree branches out into an interesting formation. It almost resembles the foot of a prehistoric animal. These trees grow quickly but because of a shallow root base, they are also vulnerable to hurricane winds. After Wilma, one street lined with these beauties looked like a war zone with most of them down - fortunately the majority toppled onto yards and streets instead of homes. Even in strength, there is an 'Achilles heel'. 4th Ave N and 5th St, Naples, FL

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Just one of those gorgeous blue skies ... and always love the contrast and texture of the palms. Looking up towards that awesome and infinite color reminds me of the various 'wide, open spaces' that I need to explore and experience! Naples, FL

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

This old train sits at the Naples Depot rusting away...though its silver sheen is evident with a little imagination. The Atlantic Coast Line was probably a vital line of communication in its 'day,' but those tracks have been replaced with today's web connections. Something about this relic still earns a level of awe and respect that only antiques, sages, and traditions share. In this day of change, growth and development, it would be wise to check our past and foundation to ensure wise decision-making. Naples Depot, Naples, FL

Monday, January 26, 2009

The painted ceramic egg is a treasure from Bulgaria - I love the warped reflection in the chrome bowl. It reminds me that sometimes our perceptions are not what they seem either...The opportunity to view different perspectives always offers a chance for increased innovation and/or more problem-solving! Though the addition of other's diverse input or outside elements adds to the mix, I think we don't take advantage of what we can 'see' from our own eyes (though photography certainly helps)! Naples, FL

Sunday, January 25, 2009

The gulf was lovely this morning, rippled with mauve, plum and golden highlights reflected from the early sunrise. But the pair of birds add nice contrast to the soft texture of the water. They look peaceful and serene floating along, but likely they are eyeing the surface for the movement of fish - after all, it's breakfast time! 4th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

Friday, January 23, 2009

Watching the workers descend from the second floor construction project on these less-than-stable-looking ladders certainly gives one an appreciation for office jobs! The angular lines and the shadows emphasize both the movement toward and the seemingly finality of the workday. Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Spent the day in a utilitarian stance - though there's not much room for creativity in mundane tasks, there's still a certain amount of problem-solving and there's still sme comfort in knowing that the parts add up to the whole. Now need to 'turn on' the faucet of energy and innovation for the creation of a presentation on Creative Commons for students - due tomorrow! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Catching cattails and reeds in this dry swamp was by chance - one of those moments that magically reaps an unexpected reward! Nothing really special in this photo, but the sunlight brings a warmth that was not in the usually balmy Naples air today! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Watching the inauguration event today was amazing - the enormity of responsibility and leadership now rest with the first black President of the United States, a man greatly admired for his inspirational oration, his commitment to collaboration, and his record of service. Today is a reminder of all of our roles in creating the America that we want to inhabit - one that exudes "liberty and justice for all."

The stars and stripes evoke the symbol of that spirit. In this afternoon's brisk wind, the flag stood proud and strong against a partly cloudy sky. The original photo served its message, but I couldn't resist a little editing to simulate the Barack Obama HOPE poster created by Shepard Fairey. Naples, FL

Doing for others is a natural extension for educators and others in the helping professions, but I think there's even more value when one volunteers in a setting that is a bit outside their comfort level. No matter our time and energy, we can all be "somebody, because anybody can serve." Cambier Park, Naples, FL

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Cloudy morning, but the sun is managing to get some territory! Wondering if I will have the same success with the list of things 'to do' in the next two days! Accomplishing tasks that have meaning to me are so much easier to do - when meaning is lost or non-existent, it is easier to procrastinate, especially if quality is important to the task at hand. Once checked off the list, there is more freedom to explore more purposeful and personal adventures though...so off I go! Lowdermilk Park, Naples, FL

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Framed between some weather-worn and barnacled pilings, this egret stealthily seeks breakfast! Imagine if we had to survive in a bird's world ...and keep an eye on nosy photographers! 3rd Ave S & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

Friday, January 16, 2009

Really felt the weight of work demands this week - it seems the density increased as the days went by...but driving home, I noticed a lighter 'density' that made me smile! Bougainvilleas are prolific in their blooms and though they are typically magenta in color and more of a tree, these lavender ones are the shrub variety and literally fill the median of a major road in town! US 41 East and Davis Blvd, Naples, FL

Thursday, January 15, 2009

A representation of the media center's video collection - not as much call for these from teachers with the internet access....Interestingly, they circulate more through student's hands as they check-out for home usage! Well...all but Plagiarism - that doesn't seem to be very popular! :) Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

The simplistic detail of the Mediterranean design adorns the old Naples Depot. Now a mere tourist attraction, the building's architecture is likely beyond recognition from its origins, but rather a reflection of a more contemporary style of the city. Barred windows have always been a fascination - an oxymoron of sorts...Windows generally reflect openings which are inviting, but the bars definitely send a different signal, no matter their embellishments! People often mimic windows, too - welcoming smiles which hide latent barriers of emotion or other complications. US 41 East and 10th St., Naples FL

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Foggy morning and dreary day in anticipation of the pending cold front...Though we won't get the arctic blast wintering the northern states, our temperatures are expected to drop 20 degrees below normal. Driving in the dense fog is not enjoyable, but I do enjoy the 'fuzziness' about it - primarily because we experience it so rarely here. Perhaps its like that occasional brain blip when the neurons misfire and leave that 'spacey' feeling - once in awhile is okay - helps to appreciate our imperfections and vulnerabilities! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Monday, January 12, 2009

Got home late tonight after a long Monday - definitely a mixed blessing as I decided to walk the beach and unwind - just in time for a lovely sunset! The temperatures were in the low 70's with a very gentle breeze, the water was like velvet, and the sunset was gorgeously colored -like an artist's palette. The pelicans were enjoying the view, too! More importantly, it brought back the need for balance - it is so easy to forget the beauty of our world with the daily stress. Making a conscious effort to create stress-free times in the 24 hours given to us will help extend our life and provide more quality, as well! 3rd Ave S and Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Dawn, the beach, soaring gulls, and the full moon setting - a glorious beginning for a new day! Hundreds of shots were taken and edited, but this was one of the last ones. The moon is nearing the horizon and beginning to fade - but what a wonderful showing the previous night! Once again, though, a new cycle begins - and life's creations explore refreshed. North Lake Dr & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

Saturday, January 10, 2009

This glass bauble was made in Washington state from recycled wine bottles - pretty cool holiday gift!! I was a bit late to catch the optimum sun's rays, but one can imagine the brilliance. Light and glass are such an unbelievable combination! Compatible and interdependent to bring my favorite 'eye candy'! Naples, FL

Friday, January 9, 2009

Lovely bougainvilleas to brighten the end of the week - I always look for something bright and cheerful on Fridays to springboard the weekend's activities! Somehow the multiple colors soothe away any tensions...Naples, FL

Thursday, January 8, 2009

If there's 'smart' water, does that mean there's 'dumb' water, too? or might there also be 'smart' cola? I'm totally amazed at the number and variety of beverages available these days, especially the waters!! This picture is from the stock area of our school's cafe - the dusty remains on the shelf are evidence of not only the beverage sales this week, but the need for a second cleaning after the construction company jack-hammered part of the floor over the holiday break! Back to the 'smart' water, how often do we label our selves and others for superficial purposes? for convenience? for marketing? Hmmm... Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Walking back to my car in the school parking lot, I was admiring the pines as they swayed lightly in the breezes of the arriving front. The clouds were building behind the silhouette of these 'starburst' needles, so I stopped to take a photo. As I was focusing the lens, the unusual 'forked' branch caught my eye. I took a close up of the 'fork', but it lost all interest when seen alone. It truly benefits from the surroundings of the other branches and is set off by the sepia tones -- which reminds me of our interdependency of others and our environment, as well as the interplay between unique diversity and community. Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

It's fairly obvious that this blossom from the orchid tree didn't want to be in prime focus with the iPhone camera lens. But that's okay by me - when you think about the psychological principles of foreground/background of perception, it is actually kind of interesting! The orchid trees are rather profuse in their blossoms these days and I keep trying (while on my afternoon walks) to take shots of bees collecting nectar from the flowers, but no luck so far. The camera focused on the track in the background, rather than the delicate nature of the the orchid - so what do you focus on: the foreground or the background...or are they interchangeable? 3rd Ave S & 8th St, Naples, FL

Monday, January 5, 2009

Back to work...easing in with a planning day, but lots of interruptions led to few accomplishments! Added two new 'stress balls' to the collection, so we'll see how long they soothe....and that broken clicker - still haven't sent that back...oh well - tomorrow's another day! :) Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Intent on capturing the abundant essence of the berries, I neglected to identify the tree from which they branched. Looks like they are in the process of ripening - mostly green to hints of pinkish-red...will try to pass by that tree again in the future to document the development! North Lake Dr & Gulfshore Blvd, Naples, FL

The pelicans were absolutely amazing this morning - lots of them and lots of activity - It was so mesmerizing to watch them take off, eye their 'prey', dive down for a morsel, stretch their full pouches, relax and start the cycle again. Just as interesting were the gulls that followed them and hung around for any leftovers - didn't see one successful scavenger though...7th St S & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

Almost missed this blossom as I'm usually walking the shore...but took a detour to the 'dune' side for a geocaching site! Though I didn't discover the cache, I saw this morning glory unfurling its petals. I love its beauty and innocence almost hidden amongst the greenery, twigs, and sandy debris. The camera on the iPhone isn't the best, but I like the composition nonetheless! 2nd Ave S & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

Nothing earth-shattering here, but I did manage to almost meet my 2008 New Year's Resolution of taking a daily photo - there were two days, July 31 and November 30, that I totally forgot! If interested, you can watch the year's review slideshow or look at the pictures here.

My goal was to learn more about my camera and photography in general. I didn't do as much camera experimentation as I'd hoped. Yes, there were days that I was able to explore and to plan a shoot, but there were more days when I either just plain documented or worse, I felt the pressure of needing to take an image (any image!) before the day's end. On the other hand, I didn't expect to gain so much in

viewing another perspective - the camera lens can be deceptive for both positive and negative,

slowing down at least one moment a day to visually focus on my environment - yes, there is a world beyond the 'rat race' and we have to claim it or it may escape,

exposing latent aspects to some photographs - the digital process is so much different than the old film processing, but there's still the potential for surprise in the product,

thinking about my choice of a daily selection - again, the process of focus and prioritization and the metacognition of such was revealing, and

journaling every day - sometimes the photo description was rather pedestrian, but often there was deeper meaning.

I will try again in 2009 - not necessarily as a quest to meet the goal, but more for the pleasure I did enjoy this past year. With the advent of additional 365/2009 Flickr groups (EdTech 365/2009, 365Random, Project365) and Photoblogs (i.e., Karin's Daily Photo, Martha's 365 Challenge, PhotoJourney2009), I look forward to seeing what others in the community will add to the experience! Additionally, I hope to stretch my potential photography skills - practice makes perfect, right? ;)

Lagniappe: The Picnik editing tool integrated with Flickr is indeed a lifesaver! Those shots that are a bit too blurry can still be saved with a transformation via contrast tool and/or effects which still warrant the photos as interesting.